West Africa

The economic landscape of Africa continues to evolve, and one of the markers of this transformation is the Forbes Global 2000 ranking. In 2025, 17 African companies made it to this prestigious list. South Africa leads the charge with an impressive 14 entries, followed by Morocco with 2, and Egypt with 1. This strong representation is more than just numbers; it tells a story of ambition, resilience, and strategic growth against a backdrop of global challenges. According to Forbes, the 2025 Global 2000 companies…

Northeastern State Leadership Stands Firm on Development Initiatives Garowe (AX) – On a day that marked a significant infrastructural advancement for the Northeastern State region, President Said Abdullahi Deni made a resounding statement regarding the future of development projects in his territory. Speaking on Saturday during the inauguration of a $5 million bridge funded by the World Bank, Deni articulated a clear vision: his administration will not entertain development initiatives that come wrapped in…

Mogadishu (AX) – On a significant Saturday for Somalia, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud presided over the handover ceremony at the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), an event that symbolizes not just a change in leadership but also a fresh chapter in the country's enduring quest for security. The mantle of leadership passed from Abdullahi Mohamed Ali Sanbaloolshe to Mahad Mohamed Salad, who now takes the reins as the new director. The ceremony unfolded at NISA headquarters in Mogadishu, drawing an assembly…

In a significant and heartening step towards unity, a group of esteemed traditional elders convened in Mogadishu on Saturday, urging opposition leaders to actively engage in the upcoming National Consultation Forum. This initiative, called by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, aims to tackle the nation’s pressing political and security challenges, issues that weigh heavily on the hearts of many Somalis. During a press conference brimming with hope and purpose, the elders warmly welcomed the President’s thrust towards…

Addressing Substance Abuse and Conflict Prevention in Dadaab In the vast expanse of northern Kenya lies the Dadaab complex, a series of camps that have become home to thousands of Somali refugees. Within these camps, a pressing issue has emerged over the years: the alarming rise in substance abuse, particularly affecting jobless young men. The Youth Organisations’ Alliance has taken up the mantle to shed light on this issue, conducting an extensive study over seven months that reveals unsettling truths about the lives…

**Mogadishu (AX)** – On a bright Saturday morning, a significant chapter unfolded in the pages of Somalia’s educational journey. Nearly 40,000 students embarked on the pivotal 12th Grade Certificate Examination for the 2024–2025 academic year. Such moments, steeped in hope and ambition, are not merely about tests; they represent dreams, aspirations, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge amidst challenging circumstances. This year, an impressive total of **39,397 students** from various regions and districts across the…

In a significant development, the Kenyan police conducted an operation on Thursday in Elwak, Mandera County, resulting in the arrest of two men who had crossed into Somalia and enlisted in the Somali National Army. This incident highlights a complex intersection of local challenges and wider geopolitical issues that affect not only Kenya but also its neighboring countries. Authorities reported that the suspects, aged 23 and 32, were linked to a troubling pattern of robberies in the Elwak region. Acting on a tip-off, police…

Opposition Leaders Critique Federal Government's Decision on C6+ Cooperation Framework Mogadishu (AX) — In a striking demonstration of discontent, Somalia’s leading opposition figures have openly criticized the federal government for its recent decision to dissolve the C6+ international cooperation framework. This move comes across as both unilateral and politically motivated, raising serious concerns about the potential isolation of the country and the jeopardization of hard-fought diplomatic and governance achievements.…

Kenya's Ongoing Battle Against Terrorism NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — On a notably vibrant Thursday in Mombasa, Kenyan President William Ruto spoke decisively about the strides the nation has made in combating the dark shadows of terrorism. With Al-Shabaab-linked attacks sparking fresh concerns in parts of northern and coastal Kenya, the backdrop of his comments was both pressing and urgent. As he addressed attendees at the closing of the 23rd Commonwealth Heads of Prosecuting Agencies Conference,…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a notable development, five opposition parties in Somalia have expressed a cautious openness to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s recent call for national dialogue. However, they firmly state that their participation hinges on meeting specific conditions designed to ensure the process is inclusive, credible, and firmly rooted in constitutional principles. In a joint statement released on a recent Friday, representatives from parties such as Xaqsoor, Samadoon, DPC, Ramaas, and Dhulka Hooyo articulated…